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Too Much to Carry?

We have heard that some airlines will waive the fee for checked baggage if the baggage contains medical supplies. If the airline you have chosen will not — and it may be worth inquiring before you finalize your ticket purchase — there are alternatives to checking those bags.

Shipping medical supplies or other necessities to your destination before you leave on a trip may be cheaper than paying the airlines for checked baggage—and it will make it easier for you in the airport. The old stand-bys for shipping include Federal Express, UPS, and the U.S. Postal Service. Depending on your destination, you may be able to ship supplies by bus, as well.

Further, as more airlines are charging for baggage, more companies are emerging to provide alternatives. Companies like Luggage Forward, First Luggage, and Direct Baggage (based in the U.K.) will pick up your baggage at your home and deliver it to your destination. The least expensive alternative we’ve found so far is the “economy” option through Luggage Free, which advertises “50 pounds for $50.” They ship medical supplies domestically; inquire about rules for international travel. Some airlines offer services similar to those offered by Luggage Free.

Alternative Shipping Options

We’ve compiled this list of companies by searching the Internet; it is by no means exhaustive. Be sure to research your options with your airline, check for updates online, or consult with a travel agent. Oley has no experience with any of these carriers, and therefore cannot vouch for their reliability. If you’ve found other reliable, reasonably priced ways to ship your medical supplies, we’d love to hear about them. Send your tips to Lisa Metzger or call her at (800) 776-OLEY.

This website is an educational resource. It is not intended to provide medical advice or recommend a course of treatment. You should discuss all issues, ideas, suggestions, etc. with your clinician prior to use. Clinicians in a relevant field have reviewed the medical information; however, the Oley Foundation does not guarantee the accuracy of the information presented, and is not liable if information is incorrect or incomplete. If you have questions please contact Oley staff.

Updated in 2015 with a generous grant from Shire, Inc.

This website was updated in 2015 with a generous grant from Shire, Inc. This website is an educational resource. It is not intended to provide medical advice or recommend a course of treatment. You should discuss all issues, ideas, suggestions, etc. with your clinician prior to use. Clinicians in a relevant field have reviewed the medical information; however, the Oley Foundation does not guarantee the accuracy of the information presented, and is not liable if information is incorrect or incomplete. If you have questions please contact Oley staff.